Differing local content policies (LCPs) can hinder the ability of companies to operate across jurisdictions, undermining industry efficiency, and limiting the establishment of a strong national rail manufacturing sector. A nationally consistent approach to LCPs would reduce unnecessary capital investment and duplication of capability, deliver greater industry stability, job security, and support a more cost-effective, competitive rail manufacturing sector.
Visibility of the national supply chain will help identify opportunities to scale up and future proof the rail manufacturing sector. For example, the National Reconstruction Fund will make targeted investments to support growth in the transport sector one of its priority areas.
Action 1: Map the national rolling stock manufacturing supply chain
| Sub-action | Indicative timeframe (calendar year) |
|---|---|
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Map the national rolling stock manufacturing supply chain. Identify economic, social and geographic impacts of the current footprint, and strengths, gaps and interstate coordination opportunities. Note this work will also consider the review of the Freight Supply Chain Strategy being undertaken by DITRDCA. |
By Quarter 2, 2024
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Action 2: Develop and adopt a nationally consistent rolling stock local content policy
| Sub-action | Indicative timeframe (calendar year) |
|---|---|
| Develop a business case for the adoption of a nationally consistent Australia and New Zealand local content policy, in line with Australia’s international commitments. | By Quarter 3, 2024 |
| Develop model national content policy, based on mapping and stakeholder engagement, which considers whole-of lifecycle asset management approach and encourages competition. | Quarter 1, 2025 |
| States and territories agree to incorporate model national content policy into rail procurement policies and frameworks. | Quarter 3, 2025 |